I was interested to read your letter about the perception of sprouts and the nation’s love/hate relationship with the vegetable (Letters, February 10).

I am definitely a lover; if fresh sprouts are cooked correctly, they can be absolutely delicious. Brussels sprouts are in season from December through to February, so can be enjoyed throughout the winter and not only with Christmas dinner.

Today there is a lack of education in the source and production of food. Julian Sturdy, MP for York Outer, has also voiced his opinions about the importance of educating young people from an early age about where their food comes from.

At Riverford, we encourage people to eat fresh, seasonal and locally sourced produce and to support farmers in their area. We can grow so much in the UK and with Jerusalem artichokes, leeks and cauliflower in season at the moment, it doesn’t make sense to constantly rely on food that is imported from other countries.

However, with strawberries and raspberries available nearly all year, consumers have come to expect a constant supply and are no longer aware of seasons.

The simple message – buy local and support your farmer.

Mark Smith, General manager, Riverford on Home Farm, Newby Wiske.